Oral health and oral hygiene in children aged 6–8 in a highland region of China: a cross-sectional study
https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2026-1-81-86
Abstract
Background. This article examines the prevalence of dental caries and risk factors in children aged 6–8 in highland Xinjiang, China. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the relationship between hygiene habits, dietary behavior, and socioeconomic conditions with dental health. Objective. To assess the prevalence of dental caries, study the influencing factors, and identify key risks. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study of 113 children was conducted from October 2024 to January 2025. Questionnaires (demographics, hygiene, and nutrition) and a clinical examination using the DMFT/dmft and OHI-S indices were used. Results. The prevalence of dental caries was 89.4%. Hygiene was poor: 70.8% of children brushed their teeth less than twice a day, and 32.7% brushed for less than one minute. Multivariate analysis identified key risk factors: daily consumption of sweets, brushing teeth less than twice a day, and not flossing. A strong correlation was found between the OHI-S and DMFT/dmft. Conclusions. The study demonstrates a high prevalence of dental caries, requiring immediate action. A comprehensive prevention strategy is needed, including targeted interventions, enhanced dental education in schools, and the development of healthy habits in children and families.
About the Authors
A. A. Skakodub
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Skakodub Alla A. – DM Sci, professor of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics Dept
Moscow
Y. Jin
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Jin Yiyao – postgraduate student of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics Dept
Moscow
R. Zeng
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Zeng Ruijie – postgraduate student of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics Dept
Moscow
A. M. Dybov
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Dybov Andrey M. – DM Sci, prof., head of Pediatric, Preventive Dentistry and Orthodontics Dept
Moscow
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For citations:
Skakodub A.A., Jin Y., Zeng R., Dybov A.M. Oral health and oral hygiene in children aged 6–8 in a highland region of China: a cross-sectional study. Medical alphabet. 2026;(1):81-86. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.33667/2078-5631-2026-1-81-86
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